Mini-Lesson: What is a Chunk?

A CHUNK = 1 DETAIL SENTENCE (embedded quotations) + 2 COMMENTARY SENTENCES

  • Your detail sentence should use text evidence to illustrate the point you are making.
  • The first commentary sentence should explain how your detail makes your point.
  • The second commentary sentence should connect this back to your overall thesis.

Group Thinking


Select a character. Think about this character's dreams. How would this character address the question what is the American dream?
Draft a rough thesis statement with your group. These will evolve when you write your own essay.
It Says, I Say, And So Chart with this thesis statement at the top.

Assignment: Character Analysis


Independent Task: In a well-crafted essay, analyze a chosen character's idea of the American Dream.
Prewriting